Dilated eye exam—You will be given special eye drops to widen your pupil and allows better examination of the lens and the structures of the back of the eye.

Ask your doctor for guidelines specific to your individual situation. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends the following general screening guidelines for healthy adults with no risk factors for eye disease:

At least once between age 20-29

At least twice between age 30-39

Age 40-64: every 2 to 4 years

Age 65 and older: every 1 to 2 years

You should be screened more often, as directed by your doctor, or if you:

Have risk factors for cataracts, glaucoma, or other eye diseases

Have a personal or family history of eye disease

Have had a serious eye injury in the past

Had eye surgery in the past

Are taking a corticosteroid medication

Have diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic illness

Note
: If you currently have eye symptoms, you should call your doctor for an evaluation. In case of an emergency, call for medical help right away.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.